Shaped by the elements over the course of millenia, the Scarborough Bluffs rise from the shores of Lake Ontario in East Toronto. The sheer face of the escarpment is a defining feature of the waterfront, rising to a height of 90 meters (300 feet) above the shore. Several parks span the 15-kilometer (9.3-mile) stretch of the Scarborough Bluffs as it traces the edge of the lake. While most of these are found perched atop its peaks, a few grant access to the narrow beach that lies at its base. The view from the top is notoriously astounding in beauty, although few can deny the striking quality of a more low-lying perspective with the barren rock face rising high above the tranquil water.
The High Park is an ancient beautiful natural preserve that offers a pond, wooded areas, trails, open picnic areas and numerous recreational facilities for the entire family. Baseball, swimming, skating, and tennis are just some of the activities that families or groups of friends can indulge in and bond over. You can also watch a play at the outdoor theatre during the annual Dream in High Park, tour the greenhouse, or visit the park's zoo. Each of the attractions has its own specific phone number and opening hours.
With thousands of animals in seven tropical pavilions spread over 220 hectares (544 acres), an African Savannah exhibit and a commitment to preserve world's wilderness and wildlife, it’s no wonder this zoo is rated among the best in the world. While committed to research and conservation, the Toronto Zoo promises to provide its visitors with a memorable experience along with educating them about wildlife and nature. With that in mind, it offers everything from rare and colorful fish to pygmy hippos. The last admission occurs one hour before closing. Prices vary according to season.
A recreational wonderland that sits a mere 10-minute ferry ride away from Toronto Harbor, the Toronto Islands constitute a set of 15 small isles in the midst of Lake Ontario. The islands are connected to one another by pathways and bridges that can be traversed on foot. Sprawled across 820 acres (330 hectares) of the lake's expanse, the Toronto Islands are home to the Snake Island, the South Chippewa Island, Mugg's Island, and Forestry Island, with the Centre Island emerging as the biggest of the group. Away from the city's furious bustle, the islands offer a serene retreat with their car-free stretches, and are home to a plethora of landmarks including the Centreville Amusement Park, the clothing-optional Hanlan's Beach, a Frisbee golf course, and the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.
Riverdale Park East is a great place to escape to, if you wish for some fresh air to breathe without leaving the city. This park area makes for a great day out with friends or family as there are a gamut of activities for everyone to pick from. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a game of baseball or football, while kids can run around at the playground. The ice rink is ideal for skating as well as ice hockey, while a swim in the outdoor pool is quite refreshing. All this activity is bound to leave you hungry; lay down for a meal in their picnic spot, and take a small hike along one of their many trails.
Toronto Parks run the Allan Gardens, one of the oldest parks in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. This park area consists of a greenhouse, a playground and two fenced areas for unleashed dogs. The sections in the greenhouse are the Tropical House that has a waterwheel, rain tropical plants and exotic flowering plants. The Cool House has a waterfall, pond and citrus trees. The Palm House has bananas, bamboo, Screw Pine and the Cactus House. The garden is open all year round. Shows begin on the first Sunday of December when the garden has wagon rides, carolers, stands selling apple cider and cookies and the shows go on till end December. Spring brings in the blossoming season for several plants in the Cool House during Easter. The Fall show is held in the first weekend of November. Allan Gardens is a favorite spot for events like weddings and other celebrations.
One of the important soccer centers of the country, The Soccer Centre is more than just a soccer facility. A FIFA certified indoor turf, the facilities offered at this center is among the best this country has to offer. It plays the role of a training center as well and is home to The Soccer Hall of Fame and Museum, Ontario Women's Soccer League, Provincial Indoor Soccer League and so forth. Training sessions, soccer games and similar activities are a regular feature here.
River Don is one of the rivers which flow along the area of Toronto, that had original settlements. Sourcing from Oak Ridges Moraine, the Don passes through Toronto, Vaughan, Markham and Richmond Hill. With a length of 38 kilometers (24 miles), the river flows into the Keating Channel. The river has trails which are often explored by travelers.
To know any city inside out, you need to wander through its lanes and absorb experiences. And what could be more enriching than viewing any city on a bicycle? If you are an outdoor enthusiast and love to explore new places, then the Toronto Bicycle Tours will be the right choice for your tours in the city. With locals and expert guides on board, you can hop on to your bicycle and roam around getting to know the city better. Tours are open for all ages, and private tours can also be arranged by contacting ahead.
Interact with about 40 different species of farm animals at the Far Enough Farm located in Centre Island. Not only can children touch and feed typical farm animals like sheep, cows, goats and pigs but the petting farm also houses a number of exotic birds like Japanese quail, fantail pigeon and even black swan. If you or your little ones have any questions about the animals, feel free to ask one of the many farmhands as they are quite knowledgeable when it comes to the animals. If you are looking to spend quality time with your family, head to Far Enough Farm for a memorable time.
Taking a walk along the scenic waterfront trails at Tommy Thompson Park is one of the popular outdoor activities at York. You not just get to view the scenic vistas around Lake Toronto but also get a magnificent view of the city's skylines. The best of both worlds, the park is actually on the outskirts of the city and is a great getaway picnic spot with beautiful jogging and biking trails.